CDPHR Condemns Arrest of ISKCON Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 27th Nov. 
The Centre for Democracy, Pluralism, and Human Rights (CDPHR) has strongly condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a prominent ISKCON monk and advocate for the rights of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Das Brahmachari was detained by the Detective Branch of Bangladesh Police at Dhaka Airport on November 25, 2024, sparking grave concerns over the safety of minority voices in the country.

A vocal critic of the growing persecution of Hindu minorities, particularly in the aftermath of the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari has worked tirelessly to highlight violence against religious minorities. His arrest, under sedition charges, is viewed as an attempt to stifle his activism and suppress dissent, particularly against the backdrop of a deteriorating political climate in Bangladesh.

The current interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has faced significant criticism for its failure to address increasing violence against minorities, creating a climate of fear and oppression. The Hindu community, which makes up approximately 8% of Bangladesh’s population, has been subjected to escalating threats under the regime’s failure to curb radical elements.

CDPHR has called on the Government of Bangladesh to:

  • Immediately release Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari and ensure his safety.
  • Uphold democratic values by ceasing the misuse of sedition laws against peaceful activists.
  • Prioritize the protection of minority rights and religious harmony.
The organization also urged international human rights groups, civil society, and media to take swift action to secure justice for Brahmachari and safeguard the fundamental rights of minorities. Additionally, CDPHR has called on the Indian government to address the situation with the Bangladeshi authorities through diplomatic channels.

The arrest of a leader who advocates for non-violence and inclusivity raises serious concerns not only about the individual’s freedom but also about the broader implications for justice and equality in Bangladesh. This is a critical time for the nation to reflect on its commitment to pluralism, with the international community called to reaffirm its dedication to human rights.

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